Northwestern’s Campbell signs with Miami, but Syracuse commit Russell holds off
Calvin Russell Jr. walked into his school’s auditorium Wednesday at Miami Northwestern alongside his seven teammates, who had signed with colleges earlier that morning.
But when it came time to tell those gathered for the ceremony where his college destination would be, Russell said he needed more time.
Many figured Russell Jr., a 6-5, 195-pound, five-star wide receiver prospect, would sign with Syracuse - the school he’s been verbally committed to since early July.
But as of Wednesday afternoon, Russell Jr. said he was still weighing his options.
“Just these last 2 or 3 days, I just wanna see if that’s where I want to call home,” Russell Jr. said. “Or if I could be closer to home and still do what I can do at the next level.”
Russell Jr., who has numerous offers from Power Four conference schools, said he wanted to be sure before he signed with Syracuse, but said Florida, FSU, Miami and LSU were still among his top considerations.
Russell, a versatile football and basketball standout for the Bulls, was a finalist for the Nat Moore Trophy, and is ranked the No. 2 prospect overall in the state and 23rd nationally by 247Sports.
This season, Russell Jr. has 32 catches for 517 yards and seven touchdowns, and has helped Northwestern advance to the state semifinals for the second consecutive season. The Bulls, who host Orlando Bishop Moore in a 3A state semifinal on Friday at Traz Powell Stadium, are two wins away from repeating as state champions.
Russell Jr. told the Miami Herald he didn’t think he would hold off on his decision until the late signing period in February. The early signing period began Wednesday and continues through Friday.
“I just need a couple of days to think about it,” Russell Jr. said.
Headlining the Bulls’ seven signees were edge rusher Jordan Campbell (Miami), who had been committed to Miami since his sophomore year.
Other signees were defensive back Tedarius Hughes (Syracuse), linebacker Desmond Johnson (Pitt), receiver NicSaint Joseph (FAU), linebacker Shane Rochelle (Middle Tennessee), guard Odonis Pierre (Bethune Cookman) and linebacker Citrus Baker (Bethune Cookman).
